Wonderful small hotel in the heart of downtown Chicago that aims to please from the moment you pull up to the front door.

I travel frequently for business, 50+ nights per year and to downtown Chicago every other month or so. In the past 7 years I have stayed at nearly all the major hotels in the downtown Chicago area and a few off beat as well (it's hard to get rooms during conventions). Our corporate offices are a few blocks from the Monaco so it is convenient for that purpose in itself. I have also stayed there for leisure travel because it really does feel very homey even though I'd probably never decorate in such trendy style! See their website for pics: http://www.monaco-chicago.com/

The prices are about the same as the other major luxury hotels; The Renaissance, Hyatt, Marriott, Swissotel, etc. and you'll pay for parking too ($28/night) like everywhere else. They are a small place, only a couple hundred rooms on ten or so floors. Their restaurant (Mossant) is typical trendy Chicago Continental food with a heavy emphasis on French bistro style (in character with the overall hotel theme). Prices are on par with other fine restaurants located nearby. The food is quite good and the atmosphere is low key. The service is good and they have an open kitchen so you will occasionally catch some of the artistry of the chefs. Cigar smoking is not allowed in the bar.

The Monaco is noticeably different from the moment you enter the lobby. It's a small place so there's no getting lost; straight ahead to the front desk. There is a nicely decorated and comfortable lounge area adjacent to check-in where wine is served at happy hour. They also have evening activities (games I think) but I've never taken part in them. All the staff are very pleasant even though at times they look a little too cool. Everyone I've met there is noticeably attentive to the guests' needs. If they don't ask, remember to request a complimentary goldfish to be brought to your room; it's a nice touch.

The building is old (appears to be from the 30's or 40's) but was remodeled circa 1996 and opened as the Monaco so the rooms are quite modern. The rooms are very comfortable after your eyes calm down from the avante garde but tasteful decor. Trust me, this is not your run of the mill hotel decorating! If you get a suite, they also have a nice little living room/sitting area and jacuzzi tub. All the appliances are modern and the CD player is a nice touch. Garden Botanika bath products are provided and the linens are what you would expect at a higher priced "luxury" hotel. The cable TV is nothing special but they do have "gourmet" snacks in the snack bar that will have you reminiscing of your childhood. Good views are limited given the size and location of the hotel but there are a few available where you can see the Chicago river.

The Monaco is conveniently located one block north of the "loop" where most business is conducted (also great local shopping just south of the hotel on Wabash Ave). It's one block west of Michigan Avenue where all the tourist and high-end shopping is). There are too many good restaurants nearby to name, most within walking distance even in the brutal winters! Lots of other tourist attractions are nearby, at most, a short cab ride.

Recommended: Yes